Kenya clashes
Nairobi (dpa) — At least eight people have been killed and hundreds more injured in demonstrations that were held across Kenya on Wednesday.
The demonstrations were called to commemorate the deaths of more than 60 people a year ago in protests against a new tax law.
According to Amnesty International, citing medics, said the violence also left around 400 people injured, including three police officers. At least eight people were being treated for gunshot wounds, the statement said.
Police used tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, according to local media and a Red Cross spokesperson. Isolated incidents of looting were also reported on the fringes of the protests in several towns and cities.
In the capital Nairobi, security forces blocked major access roads early in the day, making it difficult for demonstrators to reach the city centre.
Amid mounting tensions, Kenya’s media regulator imposed a ban on live TV and radio broadcasts from the protests. The country’s publishers’ association and opposition figures moved swiftly to challenge the ban in court.
Wednesday’s rallies commemorated the deaths of more than 60 people during last year’s mass protests against a tax law introduced by President William Ruto’s government.
The law sparked outrage for raising taxes on essential goods, adding further strain to the rising cost of living. Following public pressure, Ruto later rolled back parts of the legislation. The government’s response at the time, however, drew international criticism for its use of force, including live ammunition.
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